Thinking about studying a postgraduate course but not sure if it’s worth it?

Maybe you’ve been asking yourself… do I really need it? Will it actually help my career? Is it really worth the time… or the money?

You’re definitely not alone. These are the types of questions we get asked every day from people considering a postgraduate degree at UC.

Whether you’re vying for a promotion or looking for a career change, a postgraduate course could be just what you need to make the big move. But it’s a big decision, so let’s unpack why a postgrad course could be one of the best decisions you could make.

1. Specialise in what you actually care about

If you’re really passionate about a specific area of your job, a postgraduate course is a great way to dive in and become an expert. Instead of covering broad and general topics, like you might have done in your undergraduate, you get to focus on and specialise in the things that genuinely excite you. You will get to explore ideas in depth while working on real world projects, all while learning from people who are already pros in the field. By the end, you’ll not only know your stuff but you will have more diverse hands-on experience and skills that help you stand out.

2. Use your work experience towards your degree

If you don’t have the exact qualification needed to get into a postgraduate course, your professional experience might still get you there. UC recognises that many people build valuable skills through years of hands-on work, so your career history can be assessed as a pathway into study. Depending on how long you’ve been working and the type of roles you’ve held, you may be able to use your experience in place of formal study to meet entry requirements. It’s a flexible option that gives you credit for the knowledge you’ve already gained and helps you take the next step without having to start from scratch. Conditions apply, find out more here.

3. Extend your professional network

Postgrad study isn’t just about what you learn in class, it’s also about who you meet. You’ll connect with lecturers, industry experts and classmates who are already working in your field or share similar professional interests. These connections can open doors to collaborations, mentorships or job opportunities you might not have access to otherwise. Extending your personal network in this way can give you a leg up in the next stage of your career and lets you tap into insights and opportunities from people who really know the industry.

4. Study when and how you like

One of the biggest barriers to study can be the time commitment. It may have been a long time since you’ve studied, you may have a family to look after and you will most likely already be working. Trying to fit study around this can be challenging. However, postgraduate courses are designed with real life in mind, so no matter your circumstances, there are options to suit you. Many courses offer online, evening or even part-time study options, giving you the freedom to learn at your own pace and at the time that suits you best. This flexibility is designed to make coming back to study more manageable, meaning you can develop advanced skills and training without putting your life on hold.

Plus, the ability to tailor your study around your schedule can help you balance professional growth with personal responsibilities, so you can make the most of your postgrad experience.

5. It can help career progression or change

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, or move in a completely new direction, postgrad study can give you a real advantage. It shows employers you’re serious about growing your skills and it gives you the knowledge and confidence to step into roles you might not have considered before. You’ll learn practical, up-to-date ideas you can use straight away and develop skills that will help you stand out in a competitive job market. Whether you’re chasing a promotion or thinking about changing fields, a postgraduate degree can give you the boost you need to make it happen.

Deciding to take on postgraduate study is a big step, but it’s one that can open doors, build confidence and help you shape the future you really want. Whatever you’re aiming for, there’s a postgrad pathway out there that can help you get there.

Want to find out if postgraduate study is right for you?

If you’re curious about what studying at UC could look like, take a moment to explore our postgraduate courses. We also know that not everyone’s journey back to study is the same, which is why we have a variety of entry pathways for students.

If you still have questions (or just want to talk through your options), our Future Students team are here to help.

Explore similar topics